Due to hurricane damage, the Havelock location is closed until further notice. Havelock therapists Hannah Zhang, Sarah Hall and Judy Hickes are available to see patients at the New Bern location. Please call the New Bern location at (252) 636-9800 to discuss your care.

Hip and Knee Pain Relief

There are a variety of causes for both hip pain and knee pain. While the hip joint can withstand a good amount of wear of tear, it’s not indestructible. With age and usage, the hip cartilage can wear down. Muscles and tendons in the hip can also get overused. The anatomy of the knee is complex; it has bones, pads of cartilage and a joint capsule. Injury or aging can cause joint pain in the knee.
Causes of Hip Pain

Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are the main culprits of hip pain in older folks. Both can lead to a breakdown of the cartilage and inflammation in the hip joint. Along with pain, there’s reduced range of motion in the hip and stiffness.

Bursitis can also cause pain in the hip. Bursae are the sacs of fluid that reduce friction. If they get inflamed, they can cause pain. Typically, it’s repetitive activities that irritate the hip joint and cause pain. Like bursitis, tendinitis can cause inflammation and is usually caused by repetitive stress from movement.

Muscle or tendon strain is also a result of overuse. Repeated activities can put strain on the ligaments, tendons and muscles that support the hips. If any of these are inflamed, the hip won’t work normally, and there will be pain.

Causes of Knee Pain

Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can also cause knee pain. With the breakdown of cartilage due to osteoarthritis in the knee, the bones begin to rub against each other and cause pain. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the joints. It affects the membrane that lines the knees’ joints. The end result is inflammation, joint damage and joint pain in the knee.

The knee joint is very prone to injuries. Common injuries include meniscal injuries, anterior cruciate ligament injuries and tendon injuries. The menisci can be torn if the knee is bent and twisted. Ligaments can be torn as well. If it’s not repaired, the risk of developing osteoarthritis increases. Any sudden change in direction or twisting motion can injure the anterior cruciate ligament. Most of the injuries are the result of a blow to the outside of the knee. Tendon injuries can result if the tendon is overstretched. Activities that can injure tendons include squatting, running and jumping. A dislocated kneecap is another common cause of pain in the knee. This occurs when the patella is moved out of position. It is very painful.

The Benefits of Physical Therapy for Hip and Knee Pain

There are many benefits of physical therapy. Improved mobility, reduction of pain, less inflammation and a better lifestyle are just a few. The initial visit to a physical therapist for pain in the hip will consist of tests, such as a gait evaluation, range of motion measurement and strength measurements. Then, your physical therapist will create a personalized treatment plan. Passive treatments may include ultrasound and ice. There will also be specific exercises to improve hip strength, pain and mobility. For pain in the knee, tests are also done along with passive and active treatments, such as stretching. Treatment with a physical therapist for pain in the hip or knee can result in a faster recovery and help you avoid surgery. Plus, you won’t have to just rely on pain meds anymore.

If you’re suffering from hip pain, knee pain or any type of joint pain, be sure to give us a call. Our trained and skilled physical therapists are your path to recovery. Contact Ustoday at New Bern, Havelock, Winterville, Swansboro & Jacksonville, NC locations to set up a one-on-one consultation for a comprehensive assessment and say good-bye to pain. We are committed to giving you a healthy and painless life.